The investment required to buy a franchise varies widely.

Aimed at those with tight budgets, this category spotlights franchises systems with a low price tag for being your own boss – with all the attendant benefits of the franchising model, including trading under a recognized brand with training and support, and the buying power of a large network.

Investment requirements tend to be low in sectors where premises, employees, inventory and/or expensive equipment are not needed.

Examples include franchises that deliver online services, professional services like consultancy or van-based operations that need neither premises nor employees.

Franchisors might also accept a loss on the initial franchise fee, knowing that they will recoup it through royalties in the long run.

Of course, the initial investment is not the only variable to consider. Ongoing fees and overheads are also part of the equation, as is due diligence of the business model, industry trends, industry growth rate, and the training and support on offer.

Franchise market analysis

Milagro CBD Oil, which sells dietary supplements with booming global demand, is among the cheapest franchises going, with eight investment tiers starting from around $1,500.

For around the same investment, you can secure a ProGreen Canada franchise, which installs synthetic turf for private residences plus playgrounds, sports pitches and golf courses.

Achieve Success Today is a personal development franchise, with customers in more than 130 countries, and a minimum investment of $3,500.

Speaking Roses, offers a truly innovative product – flowers and edible products inscribed with personalized messages – for only $9,000.

Eazi-Apps and Eazi-Sites franchisees build mobile apps and websites for businesses ($10,000 minimum), while iOB Business is a digital agency franchise ($13,000).

Young Engineers ($6,000) and Algorithmics ($10,000)are children’s ‘edutainment’ opportunities, and finally, Rainbow Flower Celebrate ($15,000) provides customized lawn sign rentals for birthdays, anniversaries, realtors and other purposes.